U.S. Rep. Kristi Noem (R-SD) introduced the Black Hills National Cemetery Boundary Expansion Act, which would permanently transfer nearly 200 acres of land near Sturgis, South Dakota, from the Bureau of Land Management’s jurisdiction to the Department of Veterans Affairs, providing the cemetery with additional space for future veterans.
“Our men and women in uniform have made incredible sacrifices in service to our country,” Noem said. “The Black Hills National Cemetery is just one way our nation can serve them back. Every agency and constituency involved is in agreement on the permanent land transfer this bill would allow. I’m hopeful we can see it move forward quickly and ensure the Black Hills National Cemetery can continue serving those who have worn our nation’s uniform.”
Without legislation to make the transfer permanent, federal law limits similar transfers to 20 years.